Have you given any thought to your problem-solving abilities? When discord arises in personal relationships or business affairs, what strategies do you employ to bring about amicable resolutions? Communication issues can be overcome and in many cases, the resolution can solve problems and reward those involved by building deeper, more intimate relationships. To deconstruct how to build better relationships through effective communication, Positive Psychology Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with two authors about the fine points of solving problems and discord in relationships. Amy Herman discusses some structural strategies for solving communications problems through the lens of fine art taken from her book, Fixed: How to Perfect the Fine Art of Problem Solving, and shares examples of how she assists her highly-sensitive clientele. Ed Tronick is a developmental and clinical psychologist who explains the essential elements of the book he co-authored, The Power of Discord: Why the Ups and Downs of Relationships Are the Secret to Building Intimacy, Resilience, and Trust.

About Lisa’s guests: 

Amy E. Herman is the founder and president of The Art of Perception, Inc., a New York-based organization that conducts professional development courses for leaders around the world, from Secret Service agents to prison wardens. An art historian and an attorney, Herman holds a BA in international affairs from Lafayette College, a JD from the National Law Center at George Washington University, and a MA in art history from Hunter College. 

Book: Fixed: How to Perfect the Fine Art of Problem Solving

Ed Tronick, Ph.D., is a developmental and clinical psychologist. He co-founded the Child Development Unit at Boston Children's hospital and the Touchpoints Program with T. Berry Brazelton. He is currentlya University Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the University of Massachusetts Boston, a Research Associate in Newborn Medicine at Harvard Medical School, and director of the Infant-Parent Mental Health Fellowship Program at the University of Massachusetts Boston.

This episode of Harvesting Happiness Talk Radio is sponsored by: 

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